The new First Light Pavilion at Jodrell Bank has established yet another reason to visit the iconic site. On a recent visit, local MP, David Rutley, was shown all that the inspiring new £21.5m project has to offer, by Professor Teresa Anderson MBE, director of the University of Manchester's Discovery Centre at Jodrell Bank Observatory.
At the new attraction, visitors can experience archive materials brought together, including audio, film, diaries, letters, plans and photographs in digital displays and projections. The exhibition is set upon previous parts of the Lovell Telescope bringing visitors into direct contact with the iconic metal dish. Visitors also have the opportunity to experience a Dome Show, in the custom-built auditorium, offering each person a immersive audio-video experience with a specially commissioned short film about the story of Jodrell Bank.
The striking building, which was formally opened on 21st June, takes the form of a 76m diameter dome, which mirrors the shape and scale of the landmark Lovell Telescope. The building also maintains an age-old tradition aligning with the sun via a meridian line, cut through the dome’s entranceway. Facing due south, a window in the centre of the building invites the sun to shine across the entrance foyer as the day goes on, acting as a giant sun dial.
Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Support, the University of Manchester and several generous donors, the First Light Exhibition brings to life the Jodrell Bank story. David helped secure £4 million from HM Treasury to help unlock the available funding.
Jodrell Bank, as part of the University of Manchester, is uniquely both a World Heritage Site and a live scientific research facility. Whether you are a family looking for a day out over half term, a school planning a trip, or a business looking for a distinctive meeting environment, the First Light Pavilion provides opportunities for all.
Speaking after the visit David said, “It is always inspiring to visit Jodrell Bank and hear about its world leading scientific research, and to see the history of Jodrell Bank come to life at the First Light Pavilion was truly impressive. The work Teresa and her team have done to complete this major project through the pandemic has been extraordinary. With half term and Christmas holidays approaching, the First Light Pavilion is definitely the place to visit with family and friends – it is a completely unique experience!”